Roman Catholic Congregation of St. Elizabeth Church v. Wuerl

GILMORE, J.,

This matter is before the court on a complaint in equity seeking injunctive relief to enjoin the Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh, through Bishop Donald W. Wuerl, from suppressing, or closing, St. Elizabeth’s Church in Lawrence, Washington County, Pennsylvania. The plaintiffs/petitioners in this matter are representatives of the congregation of the suppressed parish.

On various dates the court conducted hearings and took substantial evidence on plaintiffs’ petition. The court initially would note that the petitioners have clearly demonstrated their devotion and concern for St.…